<p>My brother, a non-traditional student who's coming home from 2 years in Malaysia in June, just got his FA award from App State. There's a grant or two along with a subsidized loan, and then a $9,000 PLUS loan. Which, if I'm remembering correctly, is actually for the parents, right? The thing is, my dad was just laid off about two months ago, there will be 3 of us in 3 different universities come August, and 1 of my 2 sisters will be a senior in high school. To me, $9,000 seems like a big chunk of money to borrow, especially given our financial situation. He could take off another year to work and attend a cheaper school (not that App State is especially pricey), though I'm not sure how well that'd go over, since he's delayed college by 2 years already.
What I'm wondering now is, would it help to call their FA office? If say my mom were to call and try to explain our situation, would any good come of it? I know my own FA award changed somewhat dramatically after the school year started, and so I was hoping maybe it's still flexible. Does anyone have any experience with this?</p>
<p>What is your brother’s EFC? </p>
<p>Is UNC-Ashville still accepting apps? I think they give better aid.</p>
<p>Between his and your parent’s loan that’s a lot of debt for App. I would ask for a review and check with UNC-Ashville and UNC-Penbrook.</p>
<p>Some schools have an appeal form (or process outlined on the web) that is available before you even decide to matriculate. You should call or email (probably easier) the financial aid office and ask what their process is. Sometimes they ask for additional documents to be sent, sometimes they will set up an appt with you, and some schools are not all that helpful. But it’s worth a shot. Just be honest about what’s going on in the family and be ready to back up with documentation.</p>